外観 — meaning in English: appearance

gaikan · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for look

痛み

itami

証拠

shōko

パイプ

paipu

外観

gaikan

分

bun

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 外観 (gaikan) when discussing the visual aspects of objects, buildings, or even people's demeanor. For instance, when describing the striking facade of a traditional Japanese temple or when critiquing the design of a fashion item, gaikan becomes particularly relevant.

Synonyms & nuances

While 外観 (gaikan) focuses specifically on appearance, another word, 容姿 (yōshi), refers more to a person's physical appearance or figure. You would choose gaikan when discussing an object's visual traits rather than individual beauty.

Culture

The term 外観 (gaikan) derives from the kanji 外, meaning 'outside' or 'external,' and 観, which translates to 'view' or 'sight.' This emphasizes the importance of outer appearances in Japanese culture, where aesthetics often hold significant value in various aspects of life, from architecture to personal presentation.

FAQ

Q.What does 外観 (gaikan) mean in English?

外観 (gaikan) translates to 'appearance' in English, referring to the external look or visual characteristics of something.

Q.How do you use 外観 (gaikan) in a sentence?

You can use 外観 (gaikan) in a sentence like: 'このビルの外観はとても美しいです' (Kono biru no gaikan wa totemo utsukushii desu), which means 'The appearance of this building is very beautiful.'

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 外観 (gaikan)?

A common mistake is confusing 外観 (gaikan) with 見た目 (mitame), which also means 'appearance.' While both can be used interchangeably in casual contexts, gaikan is more formal and technical, making it suitable for architecture or art discussions.

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